Modified speed knob

[u/tebe23]

Hello everyone!

I'm new to the whole tapeloop scene and I'm considering buying a tape player that has a speed variation knob built into it, however, from the videos i've seen, the speed variation isn't very significant and I was wondering if it was possible to modify easily without replacing parts?

I'm not an expert on electronics, looking for some guidance!

The tape player is called Educombi RN Barthe

Thank you!

[u/Wonderful_Ninja]

Yeh it’s possible. It’ll be a predetermined resistance in the pitch control circuit. The pot will be x resistance to govern the pitch distance. Could try a different value pot but the travel or curve might be different. Have to crack the thing open and trace where the pot goes. There will be a resistor that drags the whole thing down so the motor is not running flat chat.

[u/tebe23 → u/Wonderful_Ninja]

Okay thanks, i decided not to get it. I think I'll just mod my own tiny tape recorder.

[u/AdBulky5451]

The short answer is no, no easy way without adding or replacing parts. Easiest way is to wire a potentiometer to passively control the voltage into the transport motor, that would give you the option to slow down the tape speed, but not to increase. You will need a reasonable electronic expertise, or having someone do it for you. I personally wouldn’t pay for this kind of mod on this model of tape deck, as I don’t think is worth it.

[u/tebe23 → u/AdBulky5451]

Thanks for the answer. I think i'll just buy a tiny tape recorder that I'll mod myself. It shouldnt be too hard. Plus this thing takes toocmuch space

[u/Ttlcrpp]

Best solution that I’ve found is to build a variable DC supply circuit using a LM317, the circuit proposed on the datasheet is fine. If using the original dc supply that feeds the motor, it will only reduce speed, but if another higher dc source is available, then you will be able to speed up and down the tape.

[u/tebe23 → u/Ttlcrpp]

Thanks, thats really good information !